Dogs are the kings of the house and Perrito Portrait portrays them.
The art of immortalising our best friends with tenderness and character.
Salina Belle is an illustrator from Cádiz, and a few months ago she started Perrito Portrait, a project where she creates personalised portraits of dogs on commission. She says it has been a breakthrough in her career as an illustrator, because it has allowed her to focus on something that really touches people, that moves them, and for her it is very gratifying.
1. Tell us about yourself and your work. Where did your vocation begin? Any first memories?
My name is Salina and I am from the south of Cádiz. I am an illustrator and nowadays I make personalised portraits of dogs drawn and framed by me.
Ever since I was a child I have loved to draw, and that is what I identify with the most. I like to be inspired by everyday things and objects that transmit nostalgia. I draw whatever I see that inspires me and my drawings are very varied. Now I've opted for dog portraits and I have my own brand called Perrito Portrait.
2. What do you find most satisfying about your work?
What I find most satisfying is, apart from the emotional reactions with clients and people who support my work, is the peace that this work brings me. For me drawing has always been my safe place, and where I feel myself, to be able to extrapolate the drawing to the work while still keeping this essence I thought it would not be possible but every time I draw it is always a new experience, either for me or for a client. Of course there are exercises and stressful moments too, but the process of drawing is always something special.
3. What is your creative process like? What are your sources of inspiration? Any particular music while working?
When I feel most inspired is always after I have had a surf session or been near the sea; surfing is a lifestyle and sport that I was lucky enough to discover just over 3 years ago and it is now more than just a sport for me. I am also inspired by being present and enjoying everyday things, without rushing, stopping to observe the details around me.
When I travel I love to explore design places and interior design is also something I love.
I like to listen to almost all kinds of music, it depends on my mood but I would say it goes between folk-pop, country and also a bit of reggae!
4. Favourite colour, book, film and record - in that order! ;D
Pink, although as a child it was lilac.
Movie "Vanilla Sky" and record... I think one of The Beatles.
5. Is your home a reflection of who you are? Tell us what it smells like, your favourite corner, your favourite decorative object or piece of furniture, if you treasure a collection... And if you have a pet, introduce it to us!
My home is totally a reflection of me and I always pay a lot of attention to how I feel at any given moment. I love decorating and making a space feel cosy and inviting to stay in. I love to burn palo santo every time I draw, although for each room I like to have a specific scent, which is natural and not too strong.
My favourite corner is my bed. And my fetish object... my entire pottery collection, if that counts as just one! I have a mug from a local potter that was a gift and it's a "coconut" and it's my favourite. I also have a collection of very very small boxes or jewellery boxes and they are my favourite decorative objects.
I have two dogs, Rocco and Brownie, although they don't live with me, they live with my parents.
6. If you could buy anything right now and take it home, what would it be? Anything!
Lots of them! But if I had to choose just one, it would probably be a very large white sofa in linen or cotton.
7. A great plan at home always includes...
A good home-cooked meal and good energy!
8. Do you have a signature dish?
Yes, I love to cook, lately I always prepare a salad with panko breaded chicken and sesame seeds with a yoghurt and tahini sauce that I love, recipe by Molly Bazz.
9. What is your favourite place in your city and abroad?
The sea is less than 10 minutes from my house. Abroad... it's difficult, it depends on the place! But in general I like quiet and hidden places.
10. Something you want to tell us that we haven't asked you, speak now or forever hold your peace!
A few months ago I started my own personalised dog portrait business called Perrito Portrait and it has been a great breakthrough in my career as an illustrator, as it has allowed me to focus on something that really touches people, that excites, and is very rewarding.
